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Ratio Four Coffee Machine with Removable Water Tank - Drip Coffee Maker with 4-Minute Brew Time, 5-20 oz Single-Serve Brewer, Matte Black

35

$279.00

In stock

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  • Brew a full 20 ounces of fresh coffee in just 4 minutes.
  • Removable water tank makes refilling and cleaning effortless.
  • Single-serve brewing from 5 to 20 ounces for perfect portions.
  • Sleek matte black design complements any modern kitchen.
  • Consistent drip brewing delivers rich, flavorful coffee every time.

What Works

  • ✓Consistent, flavorful coffee with balanced extraction
  • ✓Compact design saves counter space
  • ✓Simple one-button operation

What Doesn't

  • ✗Coffee not hot enough for some users; no carafe warmer
  • ✗Plastic filter holder feels cheap for the price
  • ✗Touch-sensitive start button can be accidentally pressed

Category coffee-makers

Brand Ratio

8/10

Our Score

Best For

Single coffee drinkers who want quality brewPour-over enthusiasts seeking convenienceThose with limited counter space

Ratio Four Coffee Machine Review — Compact Drip Brewer with Precise Review

The Ratio Four Coffee Machine is a compact drip brewer designed for those who want high-quality single-serve or small-batch coffee without the fuss of a pour-over or French press. With its bloom cycle for pre-infusion, precise water temperature control meeting Specialty Coffee Association standards, and a removable water tank for easy refills, this machine aims to deliver consistent flavor extraction. Its small footprint—just 11.5 inches tall and 7.5 inches wide—makes it ideal for tight countertops. Priced at $279, it competes with other premium single-serve brewers, offering a fully automatic experience with minimal learning curve.

Product Overview

The Ratio Four focuses on simplicity and precision. It brews between 5 and 20 ounces, accommodating either a single mug or a travel mug. The bloom cycle begins with a quick burst of hot water to let coffee grounds expand, followed by a 15-second rest before the remaining water is released. This process aims for balanced extraction similar to manual pour-over methods. The heating element keeps water between 91-95°C (195-203°F), adhering to SCA guidelines for optimal extraction. The removable water tank detaches for easy filling at the sink, and its transparency allows users to weigh it for exact volumes. The machine uses a reusable filter basket (paper filters are not included). Its matte black metal body gives a modern aesthetic, though the filter holder is plastic. Some reviewers note that the coffee cools quickly because there is no heating element under the carafe; they recommend preheating the carafe or transferring the coffee immediately. The touch-sensitive start button is responsive but can be accidentally triggered. Overall, the Ratio Four is for users who prioritize brew quality over heat retention and don't mind a bit of counter cord management.

Key Features

Bloom Cycle Pre-Infusion

  • ✓Releases a quick burst of hot water to expand grounds
  • ✓15-second rest allows coffee to settle before full brew
  • ✓Promotes balanced, full extraction

Adjustable Brew Capacity

  • ✓Brews 5 to 20 ounces per cycle
  • ✓Suits single cups or larger travel mugs
  • ✓Flexible for different daily needs

Precise Temperature Control

  • ✓Maintains water at 91-95°C (195-203°F)
  • ✓Meets Specialty Coffee Association standards
  • ✓Advanced heating element ensures consistency

Removable Water Tank

  • ✓Detaches for convenient sink refills
  • ✓Can be weighed for exact water measurement
  • ✓Simplifies precise brewing

Compact Footprint

  • ✓11.5 inches tall, 7.5 inches wide
  • ✓Fits easily on small countertops
  • ✓Matte black finish blends with modern kitchens

Shot Quality

Reviewers report that the Ratio Four produces consistently flavorful coffee that rivals pour-over methods. The bloom cycle and precise temperature control contribute to a clean, well-extracted cup. However, a common criticism is that the coffee is not hot enough for some tastes. The carafe lacks a heating element, so the coffee cools quickly. Several users mention microwaving their mug for 15-30 seconds to reach desired temperature. The brew time is about 4 minutes, which is fast for a drip machine.

The machine delivers good flavor when using the recommended coffee-to-water ratio, but some reviewers found the coffee bitter if they used too many grounds. Adjusting the amount solved the issue. The touch-sensitive start button can be inconsistent—sometimes it requires multiple presses, and other times it activates accidentally. Overall, the coffee quality is excellent for a drip machine, but the temperature shortcomings may disappoint those expecting a piping hot cup.

Pros and Cons

What Works

  • ✓Consistent, flavorful coffee with balanced extraction
  • ✓Compact design saves counter space
  • ✓Simple one-button operation
  • ✓Removable water tank eases refills and precision
  • ✓Temperature meets SCA standards
  • ✓Ideal for single servings or small travel mugs

What Doesn't

  • ✗Coffee not hot enough for some users; no carafe warmer
  • ✗Plastic filter holder feels cheap for the price
  • ✗Touch-sensitive start button can be accidentally pressed
  • ✗Long, non-retractable power cord is cumbersome
  • ✗No paper filters included; must purchase separately

The Verdict

8

The Ratio Four delivers excellent coffee flavor with SCA-standard temperature control and a simple interface. Its compact size suits small kitchens, but the lack of a carafe warmer and sensitive start button are drawbacks. It's a strong choice for solo drinkers who value brew quality over heat retention.

Who Is This For?

Single coffee drinkers who want quality brew

The 5-20 ounce capacity fits solo servings without waste.

Pour-over enthusiasts seeking convenience

The bloom cycle mimics manual pour-over technique but requires less effort.

Those with limited counter space

At 11.5" tall and 7.5" wide, it fits in tight spots.

The Ratio Four offers excellent drip coffee quality in a compact package, but be prepared to drink it quickly while it's still warm.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the coffee from the Ratio Four hot enough?
Many reviewers find the coffee not as hot as they'd like because the carafe has no heating element. Preheating the carafe or microwaving the mug for a few seconds can help.
Does the Ratio Four include paper filters?
No, it does not include any filters. The machine uses a reusable basket, but you can also use standard 8-12 cup flat-bottom paper filters if you prefer.
How do I clean the Ratio Four?
The water tank and carafe are removable and dish-washer safe. The filter basket should be rinsed after each use. Periodic descaling with a vinegar solution is recommended.
Can I use the Ratio Four to brew directly into a travel mug?
Yes, the carafe can be used to pour into a mug, or you can brew directly into a travel mug if it fits under the basket. The 20-ounce capacity accommodates many travel mugs.
Is the Ratio Four difficult to use?
No, it's simple: fill the tank, add grounds to the basket, and press the start button. Some users note the touch button can be finicky initially.
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Written by Espresso Tested Editorial Team. We pull shots on every machine we cover, measure what actually matters, and rank them so you can buy once and brew right.

(3) Comments

I'm a big fan of this coffee maker
After using a French press for several years, I grew tired of dealing with it, especially in the mornings. I could never get consistent results, though it was decent enough. I tried a few other coffee makers, but none suited me. The Ratio Four is exactly what I was looking for. It makes consistently excellent coffee, is incredibly easy to use, and looks stylish on the counter. If you want a great coffee maker for small batches, this is the one to get. One side note: my first unit arrived without the carafe lid, so I returned it and bought another directly from the company.
Ideal for Coffee Purists: Simple Yet Excellent Brewing
I'm thrilled with this coffee maker. It allows me to brew one or two cups at a time, matching the quality of pour-over and AeroPress methods with the convenience of a button. A couple of minor issues: the start button is too easy to press when removing the basket, but you adapt quickly; and the device uses more plastic than expected at this price point. I also found that generic flat basket filters work just as well as expensive brand-name ones. Overall, a fantastic purchase.
Coffee Not Hot Enough
Makes good coffee and is easy to use once mastered. The detached water tank is convenient. However, the coffee is not kept warm since there is no heating element in the carafe holder, so it must be consumed immediately. The cord is long, thick, non-retractable, and must be stored separately. Additionally, the filter holder is all plastic, which is a concern for reducing plastic use.

Product Specifications

Coffee Maker Type Drip Coffee Machine
Operation Mode Fully Automatic
Coffee Input Type ground_coffee
Power Source Electric
Filter Type Reusable
Capacity 1.3 pounds
Item Dimensions D x W x H 12"D x 14"W x 15"H
Item Weight 5.22 kg
Material Metal
Included Components Carafe
Model Name Ratio Four Matte Black
Model Number R472-G-1
Specific Uses For Product Drip Coffee Maker

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